Remilitarisation of the Rhineland Flashcards
On what date did Hitler send German troops into the Rhineland?
7th March 1936
Why was this action risky (a gamble) for Germany?
Against the Treaty of Versailles so Gb and France could have acted to stop it. German forces were not strong enough and would have had to withdraw.
What action did Hitler take to reassure European powers after this remilitarisation?
Signed a 25 year non-aggression pact that no further territorial gains would be taken in Europe
What action did the League of Nations take against German remilitarisation (clearly against ToV)?
The League condemned the action (only Soviet Union voted in favour of sanctions)
How did the British feel about the remilitarisation?
German had not acted aggressively, only ‘going into own back garden’. German troops sent into German territory
How could remilitarisation be said to have strengthened Hitler?
- Proved right against his ministers who advised him not to send in troops
- Reversed another part of the ToV could now look to Danzig and the Polish Corridor (confidence to challenge more)
- Knew Britain felt Germany was right to feel unhappy with ToV
Who did Hitler sign a pact with in 1936 after the remilitarisation?
Italy (Rome-Berlin Axis) - Mussolini now allied with Hitler not GB and France
What did France now do to strengthen itself?
Built the Maginot Line (fortifications on the border between France and Germany)
Why was Germany’s involvement in the Spanish Civil War good for Hitler?
Tested German armed forces, weapons and tactics
Along with the Abyssinian Crisis, what did the remilitarisation mark the end of?
The League of Nations as a way of keeping peace
